August

August delivers peak summer in Boston. Days are hot, evenings are warm and much of the city’s life moves outdoors to streets, parks and waterfront spaces.

The North End hosts a series of Italian religious and cultural feasts throughout the month, including long running events such as the Fisherman’s Feast and the Feast of Saint Anthony. Streets are decorated with lights, banners and streamers. Processions carry statues through the neighborhood while residents lean from windows and stand in doorways. Food stalls sell fried seafood, sausage sandwiches, arancini, pastries and festival treats. Live music and games keep visitors in the streets late into the night, and the atmosphere feels like a village celebration nested inside the city.

City beaches and waterfront parks are especially popular in August. Carson Beach in South Boston, Constitution Beach in East Boston and other shoreline spots along the Harborwalk offer places to sit by the water, wade or swim on hot days. Many locals also use ferry and commuter rail services to reach beaches in nearby towns and then return to Boston for dinner and evening activities.

Harbor activities are at their peak as well. Ferries to the Boston Harbor Islands run frequent schedules. Sunset cruises provide breezes and panoramic views of the skyline. Kayak and stand up paddle board rentals allow you to explore inlets and shorelines near the Seaport and along the Charles River while staying close to familiar landmarks.

Because August is high season, tours and restaurants can book up quickly. With thoughtful planning, you can still find quiet corners in parks and residential neighborhoods, but it is wise to reserve a few key experiences in advance if you have your heart set on a particular boat trip or dining room.

ExploreBoston.com tips for August

• Consult our North End feast calendar for exact dates, suggested arrival times and the best MBTA routes to and from the neighborhood on busy weekends.
• Use the ExploreBoston.com beaches and harbor section to compare city beaches, understand what facilities each location offers and find nearby food options so you can stay out for a full morning or afternoon.
• Check our harbor cruise and islands guide to choose between narrated sightseeing cruises, sunset trips and day long island visits that include history, hiking or simply relaxing on a quiet beach.